Change in CAFB contract could threaten jobs

Nearly 500 Columbus employees were at risk for losing their jobs earlier this week after DynCorp lost its seven-year contract at Columbus Air Force Base.

DynCorp, which has been responsible for maintenance at CAFB since 1988, has 487 employees.

The company lost its contract on Oct. 26 to L-3 Communications Vertex Aerospace out of Madison, according to a CAFB spokesperson.

"The award of this seven-year, $281-million contract is the outcome of a 20-month acquisition process and represents the best value to Air Force,'' said Staff Sgt. Bubba Franks said in an email. "We are proud of our seven-year partnership with DynCorp and their many great contributions to our pilot training mission. We look forward to teaming with L-3 when they begin contract performance Dec. 1, 2012."

DynCorp's current contract expires June 30, 2013.

L-3 Communications assured employees they will honor the remainder of the contract. However, they will negotiate a new contract when the current one expires next year.

Current employees can fill out job applications by visiting L-3 Communications' website and clicking on the position they currently hold.